Taking care of yourself postpartum: gently regaining your balance

Postpartum is an intense period, both physically and emotionally. After giving birth, the body goes through a transitional phase where fatigue, muscle pain, hormonal fluctuations, and conflicting emotions are often present. It's a stage that requires time, patience, and, above all, kindness to oneself.

Self-care after childbirth isn't just about physical recovery —it's also a way to reconnect with your body, regain confidence, and create a new harmony between body and mind. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you navigate this phase in a gentle and natural way.

Reclaiming your body after childbirth

It's tempting to want to "get your old body back," but postpartum is a stage of reconstruction . It's not a step backward, but an adaptation to a new bodily reality .

       Postnatal massage
Massage is an excellent way to release muscle tension built up during pregnancy and childbirth. It also stimulates blood circulation and promotes lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce feelings of heavy legs and fluid retention.

A suitable oil like our Monjour Oil-in-Gel is ideal for this type of treatment. Its melting texture transforms into oil upon contact with the skin, providing intense hydration while facilitating massage. Use circular motions, focusing on the stomach, legs, and lower back to soothe tension and improve skin tone.

Diet: A Key Pillar of Recovery

After giving birth, the body needs specific nutrients to recover from the stresses of pregnancy and childbirth, but also to support breastfeeding if you choose that option.

      Promote a diet rich in essential nutrients :

• Proteins (eggs, fish, legumes) to help with tissue repair.
• Omega-3 (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed oil) to support the nervous system and emotional balance.
• Iron (spinach, lentils, red meat) to compensate for iron loss linked to childbirth.
• Vitamins B and C (citrus fruits, green vegetables) to maintain good energy and strengthen the immune system.

     Hydrate regularly : Breastfeeding and postpartum recovery increase your water needs. Aim to drink at least 2 liters per day to support milk production and avoid fatigue related to dehydration.

Resuming physical activity gently

Postpartum exercise is not about "getting back in shape," but rather about gently waking up the muscles and strengthening the body after the exertion of pregnancy.

Perineal rehabilitation :
Before resuming any sporting activity, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for pelvic floor rehabilitation. This step helps tone the deep muscles and prevent discomfort such as urinary leaks.

Postnatal yoga :
Yoga is a gentle practice that helps reconnect the body and mind. It helps restore posture, improve breathing, and release accumulated tension. Postpartum-appropriate poses strengthen the back and core, and promote a return to balanced posture.

The walk :
A simple 15-20 minute daily walk is a great way to regain energy, stimulate circulation, and take some time for yourself.

The Importance of Sleep and Stress Management

Sleep deprivation is a reality for most new parents, but finding ways to offset that sleep debt is essential.

Take advantage of baby's naps : Even 20 to 30 minutes of rest can be enough to regenerate the body and improve concentration.
Breathing and relaxation : Cardiac coherence (deep breathing exercises) is an effective tool for calming the nervous system and promoting better sleep.
Accept that you can't do everything : It's tempting to want to manage everything perfectly, but learning to delegate and ask for help is essential for maintaining your mental balance.

Alternative medicines in support

Certain natural practices can also support gentle postpartum recovery:

      Acupuncture : This technique helps restore energy balance, stimulate milk production and relieve muscle pain.
      Homeopathy : Certain homeopathic strains can help regulate hormones and support recovery.
      Osteopathy : An osteopathy session after childbirth can relieve tension in the pelvis, back and perineum, and improve overall comfort.

Regain confidence in your body

Taking care of yourself after childbirth isn't about "getting your old body back," but rather learning to love it again in this new phase of life. This body has carried life—it deserves to be cared for with gentleness and kindness.

The important thing is to respect your rhythm, accept the ups and downs, and give yourself time. A daily massage with Monjour Oil-in-Gel, a walk in the sun, or simply a moment of deep breathing can be enough to make a real difference in how you feel.

-> Discover our Oil-in-Gel , perfect for supporting your skin during this transition period.